Asics "Nimbus 25" Review

If you haven’t noticed cushioning is big in today’s running shoes, really big. This is thanks to the rise of the brand Hoka. Many may have thought this rebound reaction from the minimal and barefoot shoes of years ago which are still around by the way was just another shoe fad. Well, this doesn’t seem to be the case with more and more brands including Asics jumping onto the cushion band wagon. The all new Asics Nimbus 25 is another example of big brands adding highly cushioned models to their line up. To make such a legacy model like the Nimbus is quite the risk with such a long history of users. Yes, the Nimbus has always been a cushioned focus model, but this latest model has a lot more cushioning by its much higher stack height. And that’s kinda the story here with this update.

So, who is the Nimbus 25 for? I think the better question is “who is it not for?”. I would say this may not be the best option for someone who heavily heel strikes with an unstable foot and ankle. Although adding an insole like a Cur-Ex or Superfeet can greatly improve the arch support. Previous owners of the Nimbus line need to know that his version has been fitting a half size bigger and noticeably wider. This is one of those updates I have to highly recommend going to a specialty running shop to get fitted at to ensure it fits well and that it offers enough stability for your needs. Most who *over-pronote from heel to toe might require or be better off with a more stable shoe. 

What’s great about the Nimbus 25? I think this shoe is all about cushioning. I think Asics wanted to show the running industry that they too can make an amazingly cushioned shoe as well. And I think they did just that. The cushioning reminds me of the Hoka Clifton 5’s & 6’s and honestly the new current version 9’s. It’s really plush! The Nimbus 25 also has a widened platform/ footprint which is fantastic, again similar to the Hoka Clifton. This helps add some much needed stability and also offers a nice place for an insole to sit atop. 

Let’s talk about the upper and the fit. It is noticeably wider than previous models. It still has that funny, but comfy stretchy tongue which never moves around on my pair. My only found issue is that the upper at the base of the laces can get a bit blousy and wrinkly. Not a big deal if you don’t feel it, but I have had some customers feel it as it can crease in due to the extra volume in the toe box area. Just something to be aware of. As with the odd tongue it has an equally odd collar around the ankle, both might be different compared to other shoes, but I have found both of the tongue and the ankle collar very comfortable. Same with 98% of my customers.

Other notable things with the Asics Nimbus 25 is just how lightweight it is and responsive it is. Did I mention how amazing the cushioning is? Well, it is really noticeable for walking and this is by far one of my favorite shoes for long distance walking. Aside from preferring an extra insole the Nimbus 25 offers a fun combo of lightweight, responsiveness and just enough stability for walking and running being that you don't heavily heel strike and *over-pronate. 

*Over-pronation = A foot strike from outside of the heel followed by excessive inward movement towards the inside or arch/big toe side of the foot resulting in excessive torquing of the foot/ankle. This is best observed by a shoe fitting expert like those found at a running specialty shop or medically trained professional.

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